A comparison of results of extensor tendon repair followed by early controlled mobilisation versus static immobilisation.

To compare the functional results of early controlled mobilisation and static immobilisation following repair of extensor tendons, we conducted a comparative study between two centres. In one, a consecutive series of tenorrhaphy patients was treated post-operatively by the dynamic splinting technique. In the other, a consecutive group was treated by static splinting. All patients treated by dynamic splinting were graded excellent within six weeks following surgery; no tendon ruptures occurred and no secondary corrective tendon surgery was required. After static splinting, 40% were graded excellent, 31% good, 29% fair, and none poor; six fingers treated by static splintage subsequently required tenolysis. Following surgical repair of extensor tendons of the hand, patients treated by early controlled motion regain better flexion function in terms of grip strength and pulp-to-palm distance. Dynamic splinting is a more effective technique than static splinting in the prevention of extensor lag.